Research tools for design margins

MARVIN

Research tools for analysing design margins in complex engineered systems

Three integrated modules — parametric margin valuation, top-down margin allocation, and probabilistic margin risk — built around the Margin Value Method.

Open tool References
Module 3 · MARVIN

Probabilistic Margin Analysis

Worked examples of change-propagation analysis applied to margins.

Case studies in preparation Detailed write-ups, sample DSM data, and result heatmaps will be added as each case is published.

Featured cases

Mechanical · Illustrative

Six-subsystem fan system

An illustrative DSM for a small fan system with six subsystems. Direct likelihood and impact are populated from designer judgement and the module computes combined risk between every pair. The case shows how a change introduced in one subsystem can reach margin-critical components several hops away through the network.

This is the example shipped with the module — a useful starting point for becoming familiar with the matrix layout and the output heatmap.

Domain: Mechanical · rotating machinery Components: 6 subsystems Status: Built-in example
In preparation

Industrial DSM studies

Studies from industrial collaborations — including additive-manufactured assemblies and aerospace subsystems — will be published here as they are released. These will include de-identified DSM data and a discussion of where the largest margin risk concentrations were found.

Status: in preparation Updated: 2026

Have a case to share?

If you have applied PMA-style analysis in your own work and would like it featured, please get in touch via the contact page.